If it is dysfunctional and painful, which treatment is appropriate?

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When movement is dysfunctional and painful, the priority is to reduce pain and restore mobility before loading the structure with complex strengthening. Manual therapy helps loosen tight muscles and clear joint restrictions, restoring normal tissue glide and range. Taping provides immediate support and proprioceptive cues, helping the body move more safely while the tissue heals. Modalities—such as cold or electrical stimulation—can help control pain and inflammation so movement becomes less painful. This combination sets the stage for safer, more effective rehabilitation.

Pushing into corrective exercises too soon can irritate the area and slow healing, which is why this approach focuses on symptom relief and mobility first rather than immediate strengthening. Prolonged rest or general rest without any targeted therapy won’t address the mechanical issues or prevent deconditioning. Once pain and mobility improve, progressive core strengthening and dynamic stability can be introduced to rebuild function and resilience.